Chad Russell McCrary of De Kalb, Texas left his physical body to be free of the pain and struggles of this life on January 4, 2024. He was 49 years old.

Chad was born April 1, 1974 in Fort Worth, Texas to Ronny Butler McCrary and Linda Joyce Mantooth Mc-Crary. In his life, Chad accomplished many goals and shared his triumphs with others that he may be a light to those around him. He was an IFBB PRO, the Author of the book “Answering the Call”, a Motivational Speaker, and an Official Mutant Athlete. Chad gained his Aviation License through Texarkana College, obtained his Personal Trainer Certification from the National Academy of Sports Medicine, studied Emergency Medicine at Northeast Texas Community College and was a former Paramedic for LifeNet, and a former Firefighter and Paramedic for Red River Army Depot. He was an encourager to all who knew him and those with whom he shared his story.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Linda J. Mantooth McCrary; grandparents, J.B. and Mary Sue McCrary and Russell A. and Frances L. Mantooth; and one uncle, Jerry E. Mantooth.

He is survived by his father, Ronny McCrary of De Kalb; his brother, Lance McCrary of De Kalb; his sister, Lauren Wahl of Baltimore; his niece, Eloise Kate Wahl; a special aunt, Vicki Blevins of De Kalb; two uncles and their wives, Charles and Debra McCrary of De Kalb and Russell R. And Cindy Mantooth of Fairview; an aunt, Sharon Mantooth Wallace and her husband, David of McKinney; numerous cousins; his special dog “Lucy”; a host other relatives and friends.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 11:00 A.M. Friday, January 19, 2024 at Bates Family Funeral Home in De Kalb, Texas.

Final arrangements being handled by Bates Family Funeral Home in De Kalb, Texas.

Online registration at www.batesfamilyfuneralhome.com.